VALENTINE, Neb. - While many kids spend summer mornings catching up on sleep, a group of determined young athletes in Valentine are diving into the pool at sunrise—and now, three of them are headed to the Midwestern Swimming Championships.

Valentine High School senior Aubrey Benson is one of the swimmers who qualified. She's earned a spot in two events: the 50-yard freestyle and the 50-yard breaststroke.

“I go to summer weights before this, so I wake up at 5:20 every morning to go to weights. Then I come here at 7:15,” Benson said.

Joining her at the big meet are two younger teammates: fifth grader Ryan Adams and third grader Addy Valen.

“What? I made it to State on the first meet? Very few people do that,” Adams said.

“Wow,” Valen added, summing up the moment with a single word.

Coach Susie Tiefenthaler said the daily early-morning practices are about much more than competition. They’re about building discipline, determination, and a love for a lifelong activity.

“They’re just amazing kids. They get out of bed every morning, and they come with a smile on their face because attitude is everything to me,” Tiefenthaler said. “I love to watch the kids improve. Every day they surprise me.”

Benson said swimming helps her physically and mentally stay in shape.

“Swim team is the best thing ever. It helps me in every sport,” Benson said.

And for the youngest state qualifier, those early mornings aren’t so bad—at least not completely.

“I like that it’s all quiet in the mornings. Well, it’s quiet enough,” Valen said with a grin.

The Midwestern Championships are July 18-26 in Fremont and Papillion.